Posts Tagged "STEM"

Our second ‘3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO’ Camp of the summer is a little over a month away and in honor of it, we wanted to share ways in which 3D printing technology can be incorporated in the classroom. By now, people understand the practical uses of the technology in a business setting and the benefits of designing and prototyping with 3D printing, but what might be a bit more abstract is how this technology can transform a variety of subjects in the classroom for both students and teachers.

Many K-12 schools and higher education institutions are adding 3D printers to their classrooms and incorporating the technology into lesson plans. 3D printing allows students and teachers to explore, invent and innovate together while promoting a growth mindset. In every step of the 3D printing process students must push the boundaries of traditional thinking and create something entirely new. Critical analysis, critical thinking, design, sketching, prototyping with physical objects, creating a prototype in a CAD software and creating the correct file formats to transfer the finished file into the 3D printing slicer software are the skills students develop and hone when learning to use 3D printing technology.

As noted by the University of Pittsburgh, “3D printing empowers more authentic exploration of objects that may not be readily available. For example, students can print and handle objects such as fossils, prototypes of extinct animals, prosthetics, hardware, buildings and architecture, drones and much more. Students can improve physical objects by 3D scanning the item, uploading the file in a CAD program and tweaking certain aspects to re-invent an object. Flexible filament or filament infused with conductive metals, magnetic metals, or wood allows for more specific applications for certain projects. The possibilities are endless.”

Below are ideas on how to start incorporating 3D printing into the classroom by subject.

Engineering and Design: students can print out prototypes of their own creations.

Chemistry: students can print out molecules to study.

Biology: students can study cross sections of organs and print out entire structures to learn about the intricate details of each organ.

History: students can print out historical artifacts for closer examination. This can also be done with the use of a 3D scanner to create an exact replica.

Graphic Design: students can create 3D versions of their work.

Geography: students could print out maps showing the topography, population or demographics of an area.

Architecture: students can print 3D models of their own design.

Cooking: students could design intricate molds for ice and gelatin. Or go one step further with 3D printed chocolate creations.

(Image: Creatz 3D)

These are just a few ways in which 3D printing can bring hands-on learning to traditional subjects. If you are interested in learning more about 3D printing in the classroom and how to get started, we are happy to help. Our 3D Academy can get you up to speed on 3D printing technology and help devise a lesson plan to integrate the technology.

If you have further question or would like to learn more about 3D printing in the classroom, please send us an email, info@3d-innovations.com or give us a call at 1.808.722.8667.

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.

3D Academy, a division of 3D Innovations, has teamed up with Play-Well TEKnologies to host two ‘3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO’ summer enrichment camps for students.

“We need to embrace technology to make learning more engaging. Because when students are engaged and they are interested, that’s where learning takes place.” -Unknown

This camp is a perfect introduction to design and engineering. For the design aspect of the camp, students will have the opportunity to create their own LEGO component, and in the second half of the camp, they will hone their engineering skills by creating motorized and architectural projects with LEGOS. This hands-on approach is not only fun and interactive, it also makes the abstract design and engineering concepts come to life.

About Our ‘3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO’ Camp

Everyday students will learn the fundamentals of 3D Printing, CAD Design and Spatial Environments to create their own custom and one-of-a-kind LEGO component to take home. In the other half of camp, students will take part in Play-Well’s LEGO Engineering program and have access to over 20,000 pieces of LEGO while creating motorized and architectural projects such as Steerable Motorized Gear Cars, Pneumatic Claws, Mechanized Battle Walkers, Conveyor Belt Systems, and Towering Skyscrapers. Students will be introduced to the world of 3D Printing, CAD Design, Engineering, Physics, Architecture and prototyping all while having fun in a LEGO-centric camp environment.

About 3D Academy

3D Academy, a division of 3D Innovations, specializes in developing and integrating industry technologies with STEM Education. 3D Academy promotes Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education programs that integrate 3D Technology into K–12, as well as university classrooms. Using hands-on and project-based learning strategies, we have been effective in providing students with opportunities to excel in the areas of STEM and to integrate industry applications into their learning experiences. Learn more about 3D Academy on our website.

If you have an upcoming camp and would like to inquire about the educational resources and hands-on activities we provide, please send an e-mail to info@3d-innovations.com

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.

Last week, 3D Academy had the privilege of participating in two student STEM enrichment camps. Below are short overviews of the camps and links to photos on our Facebook page from each event.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

–Nelson Mandela

Excite Camp

Hosted by the Maui Economic Development Board & Women in Technology, the goal of Excite Camp is to excite, educate as well as expose middle school students to Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) careers. Excite Camp focuses on giving under-represented demographics priorities for their camps, such as: Native Hawaiians, girls and other minorities. This year we focused on design, 3D modeling and 3D printing with camp participants.

3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO

We partnered with Play-Well TEKnologies for this hands-on design-focused engineering camp. Students were introduced to CAD design, Spatial Environments and 3D printing in order to create their own custom and one-of-a-kind LEGO component.

About 3D Academy

3D Academy, a Division of 3D Innovations, specializes in developing and integrating industry technologies with STEM Education. 3D Academy promotes Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education programs that integrate 3D Technology into K–12, as well as university classrooms. Using hands-on and project-based learning strategies, we have been effective in providing students with opportunities to excel in the areas of STEM and to integrate industry applications into their learning experiences. Learn more about 3D Academy on our website.

If you have an upcoming camp and would like to inquire about the educational resources and hands-on activities we provide, please send an e-mail to info@3d-innovations.com

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.

This year’s theme for National Engineers Week is ‘Dream Big’, and it really embodies what the engineering profession is all about. Engineering is about taking a small idea, building upon it and transforming it into a reality. Engineers engage their creativity and technical know-how to transform dreams into reality.

Here are three ways that you can encourage the students of today, and our engineers of tomorrow, to Dream Big.

Introduce Students to Engineering

While at first glance, this suggestion sounds simple enough, the truth is that many students do not know an engineer. How can they be motivated to pursue a profession without any exposure to it? So whether you are a teacher or parent, take the time to not only explain the engineering field, but introduce your child or students to an engineer. An engineer will be able to explain what they do and answer any field-specific questions.

Engineering by nature is a hands-on field. While there are indeed many theories to learn, the most engaging way of teaching engineering is to let students get their hands “dirty”. Hands-on activities engage different parts of the brain, help foster a love of the discipline all while encouraging a growth mindset.

Take a Walk around Town

Get outside and go for a walk. This gives you a chance to glance up at those tall buildings, gaze upon the city parks and revel in all things engineering. Without engineering all of the things you walk by would not exist. Engineers constructed those skyscrapers, they designed the cars zooming by and built those bridges you walk across. Examples of engineering can be seen everywhere you turn. Engage your child during the walk by asking leading questions and encouraging discussion.

Build Upon an Idea

Children are inherently creative and have many ideas floating around in their heads. Discuss the ideas that they have. Narrow their list of ideas down until you come to a single idea, and then pursue it. You don’t have to be an engineer yourself to do this.

For example, if your child has an idea for a cool and innovative product, you can:

Research the industry together.

Sketch out the idea (or design it in a CAD program).

Build a prototype of the idea with household items.

Share the idea and prototype with friends and family (anyone who will continue to encourage your child).

You never know, you might also learn something along the way.

The spirit of engineering is built upon curiosity and determination. Whether your child is currently interested in engineering or not, always encourage them to Dream Big. The bigger the dream, the fiercer the passion.

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.

Our 3D Academy and Play-Well TEKnologies have teamed up once again to host a 3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO enrichment camp for students. This camp is a perfect introduction to design and engineering. For the design aspect of the camp, students will have the opportunity to create their own LEGO component, and in the second half of the camp they will hone their engineering skills by creating motorized and architectural projects with LEGOS. This hands-on approach is not only fun and interactive, it also makes the abstract design and engineering concepts come to life.

About Our ‘3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO’ Camp

Everyday students will learn the fundamentals of 3D Printing, CAD Design and Spatial Environments to create their own custom and one-of-a-kind LEGO component to take home. In the other half of camp, students will take part in Play-Well’s LEGO Engineering program and have access to over 20,000 pieces of LEGO while creating motorized and architectural projects such as Steerable Motorized Gear Cars, Pneumatic Claws, Mechanized Battle Walkers, Conveyor Belt Systems, and Towering Skyscrapers. Students will be introduced to the world of 3D Printing, CAD Design, Engineering, Physics, Architecture and prototyping all while having fun in a LEGO-centric camp environment.

During this special time of year, it is important to take a moment to reflect on the previous year’s accomplishments. Over this past year, 3D Innovations has had the privilege to partner with numerous companies on a variety of product development projects—We had the honor of helping first time entrepreneurs bring ideas to life, assist clients with IP licensing, support in the development and marketing of crowdfunding campaigns, just to name a few.

Also this year, our 3D Academy partnered with both local and national organizations to bring hands-on STEM education activities to students here in Hawaii. Being able to share our passion for engineering and introducing students to the discipline is always rewarding. We are committed as ever to strengthening the local STEM ecosystem and working hard to ensure that all students are introduced to STEM subjects and technology early-on.

As we move into 2017, we look forward to what the New Year will bring.

Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday season and all the best in the New Year!

-The 3D Innovations Team

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.

Today marks the first day of our collaborative “3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO” event with Play-Well TEKnologies. Our 3D Academy team is excited to kickoff this event and to teach engineering and design principals to students through interactive play.

This is a week-long camp where students will learn the fundamentals of 3D Printing, CAD Design and Spatial Environments to create their own custom and one-of-a-kind LEGO component to take home.

What is Play-Well TEKnologies?

We teach approximately 100,000 students per year. We run our engineering programs in approximately 23 states, as well as in France.

We have outstanding instructors. They teach year-round and make the curriculum their own, so that each program is a uniquely fun experience.

We bring A LOT of LEGO®. With over 20,000 pieces in each class/camp, and hundreds of projects, there is no limit to what you can build.

We teach through play, explore, solve problems, and express ourselves through LEGO. Our curriculum is designed by engineers and refined by teachers, but the kids just think it’s fun!

What is 3D Academy?

Our 3D Academy is a division of 3D Innovations and specializes in developing and integrating industry technologies with STEM education.

3D Academy promotes Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education programs that integrate 3D Technology into K–12, as well as university classrooms. Using hands-on and project based learning strategies, we have been effective in providing students with opportunities to excel in the areas of STEM and to integrate industry applications into their learning experiences.

We will be sharing event updates and photos throughout the week on our Facebook and Twitter pages. Also, keep up-to-date on future events by checking out our 3D Academy website.

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.

We have been hard at work revamping our 3D Academy website and invite you to check it out. As an engineering and product development firm we understand the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education and want to help students actively engage with these subjects while fostering a love of learning.

Meet Lulu! The introductory video on the 3D Academy website follows Lulu’s journey from high school student to mechanical engineer. Learn about the programs she participated in and how 3D Academy helped her harness her talent and realize her dreams.

What is 3D Academy?

Our 3D Academy is a division of 3D Innovations and specializes in developing and integrating industry technologies with STEM education.

3D Academy promotes Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education programs that integrate 3D Technology into K–12, as well as university classrooms. Using hands-on and project based learning strategies, we have been effective in providing students with opportunities to excel in the areas of STEM and to integrate industry applications into their learning experiences.

Our core program utilizes 3D CAD and takes students through the entire design process (design, prototyping and manufacturing). When integrated into school curriculum, our STEM education programs provides students with opportunities to solve real world design problems, engage with industry standard technology, and transform concepts into reality. Our education programs have been integrated with many robotics programs such as FIRST, UROV, BotBall, and First Lego League. Programs are both customizable and scalable to meet various applications and grade levels.

Education Programs We Provide

The programs we offer bridge the gap between education and industry. Our hands on learning approach invite students to tackle a real-world problem, test theories, build upon these theories and design their own solutions. We teach them the skills needed to succeed and watch as they put these skills to use in their everyday activities.

Robotics + Project Based Learning + Drones: Utilize the Engineering Design Process to design custom robotics systems for competitions such as Vex/FIRST Robotics, and others. Learn about electro-mechanical system design using Drones and other Project Based Learning activities.

3D Printing + K-12 Programs + 3D Printing Curriculum: Get students excited about STEM. Use 3D Printing technologies to integrate with new or existing projects that let students develop their own parts. Our projects can be integrated for a wide range of grade levels and topics or use our specific curriculum to focus on 3D Printing.

Custom Program: We are also available to help in the development of a custom program to meet the needs of your students and teachers.

Experience the benefits of STEM education and see what 3D Academy can do for you. Contact us today at info@3d-innovations.com or by phone at 808.722.8667

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.

Play-Well TEKnologies and 3D Academy collaborate to create an in depth and immersive camp experience for your child through the “3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO®” program.

Everyday students will learn the fundamentals of 3D Printing, CAD Design and Spatial Environments to create their own custom and one-of-a-kind LEGO component to take home. In the other half of camp, students will take part in Play-Well’s LEGO Engineering program and have access to over 20,000 pieces of LEGO while creating motorized and architectural projects such as Steerable Motorized Gear Cars, Pneumatic Claws, Mechanized Battle Walkers, Conveyor Belt Systems, and Towering Skyscrapers. Students will be introduced to the world of 3D Printing, CAD Design, Engineering, Physics, Architecture and prototyping all while having fun in a LEGO-centric camp environment.

Visit www.play-well.org or contact Wrenn Okada at 808.221.4870 or wrenn@play-well.org for more information.

As technology advances and expands, it is finding its way into classrooms. One such technology that has great teaching and learning potential is that of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or more commonly known as drones.

2016 Hawaii STEM Conference

While drones are finding a place in many industries, academia is also an area where they are thriving. This is a hands-on tool that is relatively low-cost and allows teachers to bring lessons to life for students. We recently conducted a drone design and build workshop for teachers at the 2016 Hawaii STEM Conference and were delighted to see how many educators were not only interested in the technology, but wanted to integrate it into their schools. Our workshop covered the basics of drones—how to design and build them, and how to integrate the curriculum into their classrooms.

Below are a few of the ways that drones enhance lesson plans and get students actively involved.

Robotics. One of the most apparent subject matters drones can teach students about is robotics. Working together to make many parts function at one time requires an “if, then” mindset (“If I do this, then this happens.”). For students interested in becoming engineers, developing an analytical thinking skillset will help set them up for future success. It is important to consider that even short exposure to robotics can have a lasting impact on students to pursue complex careers that they may have never considered.

Mathematics. Basic math knowledge is essential to learning how to design and operate drones, also at a collegiate level, more complex concepts and principals can be explored.

Electronics. Wiring the drone’s microcontroller will teach the basic principles of electronics. Students will also come to understand the way electronic motors operate and how to repair them when they fail.

Programming. This is a big one because many schools are now realizing that in order to have successful students, programming is an essential skill they need to learn before entering the workforce. Building drones lets students explore and develop programming skills. As students advance they will be able to experiment with open-source hardware and software for the microcontroller.

Perseverance. Failure is not a bad thing, which is something many students (and adults) have a hard time coming to terms with. All of the above subjects we mentioned require students to test theories, and inherently there is a degree of failure associated with this testing. Building an attitude of “Why didn’t my theory work and how do I fix it?” creates open-minded students and life-long learners.

Developing the above STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) skills at an early-age is critical for the future job market—it is predicted that eight million STEM jobs will need to be filled by 2018.

If you are interested in learning more about integrating drone technology into your classroom or school, send us an e-mail at info@3d-innovations.com — We can provide resources and further insight to help you get started.

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.